Clinical experience with cone beam ct: a report of incidental findings in 60 cases

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study is determine the location, nature and occurrence of incidental maxillofacial finding s on CBCT scans performed for maxillofacial diagnostic purpose. The main objective is to assess that the number of incidental findings on a CBCT scan is high, both, within and outside of the primary area of interest, thereby Materials and Methods: CBCT images (Full Skull) of 60 consecutive patients, taken in the department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, between Jan 2013 and June 2014 are analyzed retrospectively. The images are taken by 3D Promax and the incidental findings are categorized and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Out of all images taken for various diagnostic purposes, only the Full Skull images were selected for the purpose of increased area of vision. Results: The overall rate of incidental findings is 97.5%. The highest rate of incidental findings was in nasal area (43.2%), followed by sinus area (34.6%), TMJ findings (6.3%) and others (13.4%). Conclusion: From the above inference obtained from the study, it can be concluded that incidental findings are essential that a person trained in advanced interpretation techniques in Radiology, interprets the CBCT Scans in order to avoid under- or over estimation of potential complications in providing comprehensive health care.